Use of bundled interventions, including a checklist to promote compliance with aseptic technique, to reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections in the intensive care unit

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A checklist that promotes compliance with aseptic technique during line insertion is a component of many care bundles aimed at reducing nosocomial infections among intensive care unit patients. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether the use of bundled interventions that include a checklist during central-line insertions reduces catheter-related bloodstream infections in intensive care unit patients. METHODS: A literature review was performed using methodology adapted from the American Heart Association's International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation. RESULTS: Seventeen cohort studies were included. Thirteen studies were supportive of the intervention, while four were neutral. Infection rates ranged from 1.6 to 10.8 per 1000 central-line days in control groups, and from 0.0 to 3.8 per 1000 central-line days in the intervention groups. CONCLUSION: There is fair evidence to recommend the use of care bundles that include a checklist during central-line insertion in intensive care unit patients to reduce the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections. ©2014 Pulsus Group Inc. All rights reserved.